We have long believed that archaeology offers a unique combination of activities, skills and opportunities, giving it a broad appeal that goes beyond many other areas of cultural endeavour. We have also long argued that the very mechanisms by which real, successful and integrated archaeological projects focused on communities can be delivered are under serious threat – from both local and national level cuts. We argue that museums and local authority archaeology services are key to ensuring that the numerous and diverse benefits of public participation in archaeology are fully realised.